The Influence Of Physical Inactivity On Risk Of Type 2 Diabetes In University Staff

Abstract

There is now comprehensive evidence that physical inactivity is a primary cause of most cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. The Finnish Diabetes Risk Score (FINDRISC) questionnaire has demonstrated to be an effective tool for predicting the development of cardio-metabolic disorders, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and metabolic syndrome (MetS). Importantly, one FINDRISC question is related with physical activity. PURPOSE: Thus, the present study aimed: (i) to determine the influence of physical inactivity on the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in university staff; and (ii) to determine possible connections between health parameters and the questionnaire responses. METHODS: A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted with 252 professors and administrative staff (139 women: 42±11 yr; 113 men: 45±13 yr) from the Autonomous University of Chihuahua (UACH) who underwent a health check including anthropometric measurements (height, weight, and waist circumference), blood pressure, and the FINDRISC questionnaire. The association between physical activity and the risk of T2DM was measured by contingency tables. RESULTS: There was a significant association between physical inactivity and the risk of T2DM (p<0.000). Waist circumference and body max index were also associated with physical inactivity (p=0.01 and 0.03, respectively). Cardiovascular risk measured by waist circumference was 33% for women and 31% for men. Around 42% of men and 40% of women did at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily. CONCLUSIONS: Lack of physical activity measured by the FINDRISC questionnaire showed a robust association with the risk of development cardio- metabolic disorders, as well as with health parameters.Table: No title available.